For property managers, keeping apartments in good condition is about more than making a property look nice. Proper maintenance helps protect the property, control operating costs, improve resident satisfaction, and prevent small problems from becoming expensive repairs.
Windows and doors are two of the most frequently used components in an apartment community. Over time, screens become damaged, window hardware wears out, blinds break, storm doors need repairs, and other components eventually need to be replaced.
Having a routine maintenance plan for windows and doors can help property managers stay ahead of these problems.
Why Window & Door Maintenance Matters
Windows and doors are used every day by residents, maintenance personnel, vendors, and contractors. Because of this constant use, even quality products will eventually experience normal wear and tear.
Ignoring a small problem can sometimes lead to a much larger one.
For example, a damaged window screen may seem like a minor issue, but a broken frame or missing screen can affect the appearance of the property and allow insects into the apartment. A damaged window lock or worn-out component may also affect the proper operation and security of the window.
Routine inspections allow maintenance teams to identify these issues before they become larger problems.
1. Inspect Window Screens Regularly
Window screens are one of the most commonly damaged items in apartment communities.
During apartment inspections and turnovers, look for:
- Torn or damaged screen mesh
- Bent or damaged frames
- Missing screen hardware
- Broken clips or springs
- Missing pull tabs
- Screens that do not fit properly
- Loose or damaged corners
- Screens that are difficult to remove or install
Not every damaged screen needs to be replaced with an entirely new window. In many situations, replacement screens or replacement screen components can provide a cost-effective solution.
For older buildings, it is also important to make sure the replacement screen matches the existing window system. Different manufacturers and window styles can require different frame profiles and hardware.
2. Check Window Hardware
Window problems are not always caused by the window itself. Many times, a small replacement component can restore proper operation.
Maintenance teams should periodically inspect:
- Window locks
- Sash balances
- Rollers
- Operators
- Handles
- Latches
- Guides
- Springs
- Clips and other hardware
If a window is difficult to open, won’t stay open, does not lock properly, or operates unevenly, the problem may be a worn or broken component.
Replacing the appropriate part can often be considerably less expensive than replacing the entire window.
3. Inspect Windows During Apartment Turnovers
Apartment turnover is an ideal time to inspect windows and doors.
Before a new resident moves in, maintenance personnel should check each window to make sure it:
- Opens and closes properly
- Locks securely
- Has the correct screen
- Has undamaged glass
- Has properly functioning hardware
- Does not have obvious damage or deterioration
Taking care of these items before move-in can help prevent maintenance calls after a resident moves into the apartment.
4. Don’t Forget Storm Doors
Storm doors receive a tremendous amount of use, particularly in apartment communities.
During inspections, check for:
- Damaged or missing screens
- Broken glass
- Loose hinges
- Damaged closers
- Worn handles
- Broken locks or latches
- Damaged frames
- Doors that do not close properly
A storm door that doesn’t close or latch correctly should be addressed promptly. Small hardware problems can often be repaired without replacing the entire door.
5. Inspect Patio and Exterior Doors
Exterior and patio doors should also be included in your maintenance program.
Check for:
- Difficult operation
- Damaged rollers
- Worn tracks
- Broken locks
- Damaged handles
- Improper alignment
- Damaged screens
- Gaps around the door
- Damaged weatherstripping
A door that is difficult to operate may simply need a replacement roller, lock, handle, or other component.
Identifying the actual problem before ordering materials can save both time and money.
6. Check Window Blinds and Interior Window Coverings
Window blinds are another common maintenance item in rental properties.
During apartment turnover, inspect blinds for:
- Broken slats
- Damaged cords or operating mechanisms
- Missing components
- Bent headrails
- Broken mounting brackets
- Blinds that do not operate properly
Replacing damaged blinds as part of the turnover process can help keep apartments looking clean and well-maintained for incoming residents.
7. Accurate Measurements Are Critical
One of the biggest challenges when ordering replacement windows, screens, doors, blinds, or hardware is getting the correct measurements.
An incorrect measurement can result in:
- Parts that don’t fit
- Additional shipping costs
- Delays
- Reorders
- Additional labor
- Frustrated maintenance personnel
Whenever possible, record the manufacturer’s information, window or door type, measurements, hardware style, and photographs of the existing product.
Photos can be especially helpful when trying to identify older or discontinued window and door components.
8. Keep Records of Replacement Parts
For larger apartment communities or property management companies overseeing multiple properties, keeping a record of commonly used replacement parts can make future maintenance much easier.
Consider documenting:
- Window manufacturer
- Window series or model
- Screen dimensions
- Screen frame type
- Mesh type
- Hardware used
- Storm door manufacturer
- Door dimensions
- Blind sizes
- Frequently replaced components
Having this information available can reduce the time spent trying to identify parts when a maintenance issue occurs.
9. Consider Keeping Common Parts in Stock
If your property regularly replaces the same window screens, locks, rollers, blinds, or storm door components, maintaining a small inventory can help reduce delays.
Common replacement items can be identified based on your property’s maintenance history.
Keeping frequently needed parts available may allow maintenance personnel to complete repairs sooner instead of waiting for materials to be ordered and shipped.
10. Work With a Reliable Replacement Parts Supplier
Having a supplier that understands multifamily maintenance can make a significant difference.
A good supplier should be able to help with more than simply selling a product. They should be able to assist with identifying replacement parts, determining measurements, providing quotes, and helping find solutions for older or difficult-to-identify products.
At Davidson Sash & Door, we understand that apartment maintenance often requires finding the right replacement part—not necessarily replacing an entire window or door.
We provide replacement hardware for a variety of windows and doors, as well as custom-made window screens, patio screens, mini-blinds, storm doors, and other replacement products.
A Simple Window & Door Maintenance Checklist
Property managers can use the following checklist during routine inspections and apartment turnovers:
Windows
- Window opens and closes properly
- Window locks securely
- Screen is present and undamaged
- Screen fits properly
- Hardware is functioning correctly
- Glass is free of damage
- No obvious deterioration or damage
Storm & Exterior Doors
- Door opens and closes properly
- Door latches securely
- Hinges are in good condition
- Closer operates properly
- Lock and handle function correctly
- Screen or glass is undamaged
Patio Doors
- Door operates smoothly
- Rollers are functioning properly
- Track is in good condition
- Lock and handle work properly
- Screen door is in good condition
Blinds
- Blinds operate properly
- Slats are not damaged
- Mounting hardware is secure
- Operating components are functioning
Preventive Maintenance Saves Time and Money
The goal of a good maintenance program isn’t simply to fix problems after they occur. It’s to identify potential problems before they become expensive repairs.
For property managers, a damaged screen, broken lock, worn roller, or malfunctioning storm door may seem like a small issue. But multiplied across hundreds or thousands of apartment units, these small repairs can quickly become a significant expense.
Regular inspections, accurate measurements, good recordkeeping, and a reliable source for replacement parts can help property managers maintain their communities efficiently while controlling maintenance costs.
Need Help Identifying a Replacement Part?
If you have a damaged window or door component and aren’t sure what you need, Davidson Sash & Door can help identify replacement parts and provide solutions for a variety of residential and multifamily applications.
Davidson Sash & Door
Replacement window and door parts, custom window screens, patio screens, mini-blinds, storm doors, and more.
Contact us to discuss your window and door maintenance needs.